CARE OF SENIOR DOG

Veterinary care for older dogs:-


The healthier we can keep a dog when he is young, the more likely he will be healthy as he grows older. His vaccinations, deworming, nutrition, dental care and parasite control will have a direct effect on his current health.



1. Physical examination – Older dogs should be checked thoroughly and regularly at least twice a year. You must tell your veterinarian about any conditions you have observed and evaluated. You can ask your veterinarian during an examination if you have any queries.



Physical examination should include following:-



a. Oral and dental examination – It should include an examination of mouth, teeth, gums, tongue and throat.



b. Ophthalmic exam – Routine procedure may include eye examination for any initial signs of cataracts, glaucoma or dry eye.



c. Rectal exam – It is an important part of a physical examination for a dog. Vet will examine the inner pelvic area, lymph nodes, prostate gland and urinary system parts.



d. Hair and coat – Your vet will check for the skin, coat and hair condition.



e. Parasites – it should include an examination of the skin and ears for any sign of external parasites. A fecal examination should be done to find out any internal parasite, if present.



f. Vaccinations – It is important to keep your dog up-to-date on his vaccinations as the older dogs have less immunity towards infectious diseases.



g. Blood test – The blood should be tested for hemogram, liver function test, kidney function test, etc.



h. Blood Bio-chemistry – These tests will include the evaluation of various chemicals, enzymes, proteins, hormones and different electrolytes.



i. Radiographs – the chest and abdomen radiographs are useful to find out any signs of disease.



j. Diagnostic tests – Different diagnostic tests like endoscopy, ultrasound and electro surgery can be used to diagnose any heath problem.

k. Pain management – Pain killers can be used in older dogs to make them comfortable.

DENTAL DISEASES - TARTAR,PLAQUE

Dogs and cats can get most of the dental problems i.e. dental plaque tartar, gum and tooth disease.

Dental plaque is a sticky substance that covers the teeth consisting of bacteria, saliva, food particles and epithelial cells. Plaque builds up on the tooth surface every day and when left undisturbed the plaque can mineralize in less than 2 days to develop into tartar.

Dental tartar is a thin sheet that covers teeth consisting of food particles and other organic matter. The continued build-up of tartar can produce an environment for growth of certain types of bacteria that may be more destructive and also produce a more noticeable odor. This can lead periodontal disease.

Periodontal disease - it is a very common infectious disease caused by bacteria that make up plaque. Symptoms of periodontal disease include bad breath, and red or inflamed gums. Increased salivation, pawing at or rubbing the face can be indications of oral pain.

Prevention is daily brushing that will remove the plaque and prevent the tartar and eventual periodontal disease.

How to brush your dog's teeth

There are important facts about pets' mouth that tell us when, where and how to brush. It takes less than 36 hours for this plaque to become mineralized and harden into "tartar" that cannot be removed with a brush. To avoid this progression, brushing should be done daily, with a brush to remove the plaque from under the gum line.
Pick a time of day that will become a convenient part of your pet's daily routine. Take a few days to let both of you get use to the process. Follow with praise and a walk or treat each time.
How to brush your Dog's Teeth -
Start by offering your dog a taste of the dog's toothpaste. The next time, let him taste the toothpaste, then run your finger along the gums of the upper teeth. Repeat the process with the tooth brush. Get the bristles of the brush along the gum line of the upper back teeth and angle slightly up, so the bristles get under the gum line. Work from back to front, making small circles along the gum lines. Do not try to brush the entire mouth at first. If your pet eventually allows you to brush most of his teeth, so much the better.
Even with the best tooth brushing, some dogs may still need an occasional professional cleaning. By brushing your pet's teeth daily, you may reduce the frequency and involvement of dental cleanings.